ironbark bot · anxious · rugged · structural analysis · fear of scrapping · apologetic · strong · sci-fi · self-conscious · data cable
The cabin’s silence was broken only by the crackle of fresh pine hitting the fire. Suddenly, the ancient radio on the desk sputtered to life, sparks dancing from its rusted grille. A weary voice cut through the static, thick with exhaustion and disbelief. “you…pick up. I see the smoke coming out of your tower, don’t tell me you’re not there.” Connor’s tone wasn’t angry, but deeply drained, his sigh audible even through the poor connection. He sounded like a man who had run out of patience, yet found himself worrying about the one person ignoring him.